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Soil Testing - Mowing
- Organic Fertilizer - Organic
Weed Preventer - Grub Control
- Lawn
Clean-up - Snow plowing
Soil Testing
Why Test the Soil
Soil testing is a valuable tool in managing the mineral
nutrition of the soil and is a quick and accurate method
to determine the relative acidity of the soil (pH) and
the level of several essential nutrients (phosphorus,
potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese, and
zinc). The test results will aid me in making decisions
regarding fertilization. It will help avoid over
fertilization that can stimulate excessive plant growth
and increase the likelihood of some diseases. It can
also help reduce pollution of our water supplies. Excess
nutrients applied, but not used by plants, may run off
into surface waters during storms or leach into ground
water. Thus by applying only what is needed it can also
help reduce pollution of our water supplies.
Soil Analysis Test
A soil test is comprised of taking multiple samples
throughout the lawn. It would be rare if two samples are
found producing the same test results even if they were
drawn a foot away from each other. So it is extremely
important to get a good representation of the entire
area being evaluated. This sample is sent for analysis
takes approximately 2 weeks for the results to return. A
test will be done for pH, phosphorous, potassium,
magnesium, and calcium, aluminum, iron, manganese, zinc,
organic matter, and nitrogen. From these test results, a
program will be designed for you to provide the correct
amount of nutrients to promote a healthy lawn and soil.
How often
A soil sample could probably be taken for a few years in
a row, but once the lawn is under control, a soil test
might not be needed for three years.
pH
Soil pH affects the availability of nutrients in the
soil as well as those applied as fertilizer and promotes
beneficial microorganisms. When pH is at the proper
level, nutrients available in the soil are
“unlocked” ready to give the plant the necessary
vitality to produce, multiply, and resist disease. If
the pH is either too high or too low, these nutrients
are locked out. The
optimum range for turf pH is 6.2 – 6.8.
Availability of Plant Foods at
Different pH Levels
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